Gemotions

He stared at the invitation, the glossy paper practically vibrating in his hand. “Twenty years, huh?” Kevin croaked, his voice raw. He imagined the faces, the judgments, the comparisons. His stomach clenched.

He spun around, nearly knocking over a lamp. His apartment, usually a refuge, now felt like a prison. He needed to get out, to *do* something. He grabbed his keys, fumbling with them.

He shoved open the door and practically ran to his car. The need to escape was overwhelming, a physical force propelling him forward. The world outside felt sharp and bright, an assault on his senses. He needed a drink, a distraction, anything to silence the internal clamor.